Methodology

The therapeutic approach adopted by the project is based on the principles of non-directive psychotherapy (Carl Rogers, Virginia Axline).

The underlying philosophy of the approach is that there exists in all human beings, including children, the drive for self realisation, which motivates the person. The assumption is that, given the opportunity to express themselves freely, children will reach solutions and resolve their own emotional difficulties themselves.

In the project, providing a welcoming and accepting environment, reading to and with the child and allowing the child to draw (initially nonverbal symbols), creates an intense relationship, which changes the child’s relationships with others and with self, relationships that have been distorted or impaired during development due to poverty and deprivation.

Model 1: Methodology algorithm

The aim is to bring the child to a level of emotional and social functioning, so that usual development progress can be resumed and the child can be reintegrated into society.

The methodology requires that initial contact with a vulnerable child is made in the non-threatening environment of the street. Thereafter the child is invited to a welcoming site, near to the city centre, under the trees, but in a place that does not cause public disturbance or discomfort, a small patch of non-utilized land at Makongoro Bustani. It is in these field sites that literacy, health education and counselling sessions are held, which in turn lead to the completion of detailed case files which allow for case discussions each morning with the team and interventions to reintegrate the child into home, school and society.

Model 2: Home visit trajectory/algorithm